Granite Countertops Are Still Top of the List for Home Improvements

Despite the slowing economy, consumers are still spending money on home renovations. Homeowners are investing in their home remodels, particularly in the kitchen, across the country to increase the value of their homes or make it more enjoyable for them while they suffer from the housing slump.

Granite countertops are a popular home improvement.

Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence recently conducted a study of 10,000 people and found that kitchen remodeling is still a top choice for homeowners looking to add value to their home. The study asked homeowners to answer questions about their homes. “If you were changing your kitchen now and had no budget constraints, what improvement would you make?”Granite countertops were one of the most desired kitchen features.

Garis Distelhorst is the executive vice president of Marble Institute of America. He says that while many consumers are tightening the belts, they still desire granite countertops.

“Historically, consumers recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of a home in ways few other improvements can,” said Distelhorst. “No other countertop surface can measure up to granite in terms of practicality, timeless beauty, durability and safety. This natural stone has held its value in ways more trendy materials have not.”

Consumers are still confident in investing in kitchen makeovers, as these projects can increase their home’s resale values. According to The, over the past five year, kitchen remodeling projects have typically returned 80 to 85 per cent of the consumers’ investment. “Cost versus Value Report”Remodeling magazine.

Experts agree that kitchen renovations can increase the resale value of a home. An all-new kitchen can actually increase resale values. “that looks great and is fun to work in”According to a survey by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, this was the number one priority for 2,200 home-owners.

“What we’ve discovered is that the home continues to be our emotional center and the sweet spot of everyday life,”Gayle Butler, editor in chief of Better Home, said the following: “Economic uncertainty aside, we won’t stop spending, improving and dreaming.”

You can find more information on the Marble Institute Website. www.usenaturalstone.com.